Don’t tell the squirrels know we planted special bulbs for Canada’s 150th in 2017! Let’s hope the sign is surrounded by blooms in the Spring. After planting, the Youth recharged on pizza and then we all had an old-fashioned sewing bee. These PJ pants will add a personal touch to the Christmas Hampers this year. Thanks to Joan, Grace, Cathy, Avis, Liz, Leanne and Jim for set up.

LIVING THE REFORMATION TODAY: THREE ISSUES

Truth & Reconciliation: Calls to Action for Seminary and Church
Tuesday, November 8, 1:30 – 4:30pm

The truth and reconciliation commission made 94 calls to action. Focusing on specific calls to action, we will learn how seminary curricula are incorporating specific calls and also hear how congregations are implementing them. Presenters:

Jonathan Hamilton Diablo, Co-Chair of University of Toronto Task Force on Truth and Reconciliation; Director, Aboriginal Student Services; Coordinator, Council of Aboriginal Initiatives First Nations House

Beginning with a legal update on current legislation, a panel will explore questions from a Reformed theological perspective and consider the issues with which clergy and pastoral visitors struggle in providing care. Resources:

Sunday, October 2 was a special day at St. Giles as we celebrated World Communion Sunday and worshipped with Rev. Barry as he led the congregation in his last service before his retirement. The service had a Celtic theme and we were blessed to have guest musicians, Caitlin Mason and Tessa Catton accompanying Dan and the choir. We all enjoyed their Celtic Medley! We were also blessed to have Jen Brown Nead as a guest soloist who sang ” How Great Thou Art.” The second offering was for the Inn of the Good Shepherd. The choir ended the service with a choral Celtic Blessing. After the service, Mission and Outreach members served a delicious soup luncheon, with cake by the Men’s group, and we were able to visit with Rev. Barry and Peggy to again wish them the very best in retirement. Submitted by Donna.

On Friday, September 30, friends and family met at the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club to celebrate Rev. Barry’s ministry and to wish him well in his upcoming retirement. Craig welcomed everyone and shared his memories of his first meeting of the Van Dusen family. Dan Sonier led the choir in a “Let It Be” musical tribute written by Jean Chorostecki, Shirley Berdan and Jeanette Armstrong. Graham Royal shared special letters with the Van Dusen family—another tribute to Rev. Barry’s ministry. The evening concluded with Rev. Barry’s remarks as he reflected on his ministry and anticipation of his retirement. We wish Rev. Barry and his family all God’s blessings as he journeys into the wonderful world of retirement. Submitted by Donna.

On September 25, 2016 the congregation at St. Giles celebrated its 70th Anniversary. This was a very special service as new windows and a stained glass window were dedicated. We are blessed to have had so many families and individuals contribute in many ways to make this project successful. Rev. Dr. Chris O’Reilly was the guest minister. Tessa Catton, Caitlin Mason and Craig Gander shared their musical talent as Dan Sonier led them, and the choir, in music and song. After the service, Wanda James and David Johnson shared their knowledge of the history of St. Giles and we all appreciated reminiscing about the faith journey of St. Giles. We also enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by Pat Edwards and her team. Again, thanks to all who made this anniversary such a special event. Submitted by Donna.